As the sun dips below the horizon and the air around you cools, there’s nothing quite like the scent of Slow Cooker Chicken Shawarma wafting through your home. It’s cozy, fragrant, and promises a meal that feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening. The tender, spiced chicken melds wonderfully with fresh toppings, creating a perfect dish that your family will look forward to. Imagine gathering around the table, everyone bustling with excitement, with that first bite melting into the season’s flavors, comfort food at its finest.

Slow Cooker Chicken Shawarma

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A cozy and fragrant slow cooker chicken shawarma that melts in your mouth, perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings.

Author: amelia-grace
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 240 minutes
Total Time: 255 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Main Course
Method: Slow Cooking
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Diet: Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free

Ingredients

Scale

4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
4 garlic cloves, minced
2 teaspoons ground cumin
2 teaspoons ground paprika
1 teaspoon ground turmeric
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 cup olive oil
Juice of 1 lemon
Pita bread or wraps for serving
Toppings like lettuce, tomatoes, and tahini sauce

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Instructions

In a large bowl, combine the minced garlic, ground cumin, paprika, turmeric, coriander, cayenne pepper, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Whisk until well blended.
Rub the spice mixture all over the chicken thighs, ensuring they are generously coated.
Place the seasoned chicken in the slow cooker and pour in any remaining marinade. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
Once the chicken is tender, shred it in the slow cooker using two forks, mixing it with the cooking juices.
Serve the chicken in warm pita or wraps topped with lettuce, tomatoes, and tahini sauce.

Notes

For extra flavor, marinate the chicken overnight. Crisp pita bread by warming it before serving.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 380
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 500mg
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 19g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 15g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 32g
Cholesterol: 75mg

Let’s Make It Together

Making Slow Cooker Chicken Shawarma is as easy as it is rewarding. With just a few simple steps, your slow cooker will work its magic while you go about your day, making this a wonderful meal for busy weeknights or lazy Sundays. Just prepare your spice blend, coat the chicken, and let the cooker handle the rest until you’re ready to enjoy a hearty, satisfying dinner.

Ingredients You’ll Need

4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
4 garlic cloves, minced
2 teaspoons ground cumin
2 teaspoons ground paprika
1 teaspoon ground turmeric
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 cup olive oil
Juice of 1 lemon
Pita bread or wraps for serving
Toppings like lettuce, tomatoes, and tahini sauce

Step-by-Step Directions

In a large bowl, combine the minced garlic, ground cumin, paprika, turmeric, coriander, cayenne pepper, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Whisk until the spices are well blended, creating a colorful, aromatic mixture.
Take your chicken thighs and rub the spice mixture all over them, ensuring that each piece is generously coated. Feel free to get your hands in there; it’s part of the fun!
Place the seasoned chicken in the slow cooker and pour in any remaining marinade. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the chicken is perfectly tender and shreds easily with a fork.
When the chicken is done, shred it right in the slow cooker using two forks, mixing it with the cooking juices for extra flavor. The aroma at this point will make your mouth water!
Serve the succulent chicken in warm pita bread or wraps, topped with a heap of fresh lettuce, chopped tomatoes, and a generous drizzle of tahini sauce. Nothing beats that first bite of flavorful, juicy goodness!

Nutritional Snapshot

Serving Size: Approximately 2 shredded chicken thighs
Calories: 380
Protein: 32g
Carbs: 15g
Fat: 22g
Fiber: 3g

Packed with protein and fiber, this recipe keeps you full without feeling heavy, making it a nourishing option for the whole family.

When to Enjoy It

Serve this delicious Slow Cooker Chicken Shawarma for a cozy family dinner during the week or at a gathering of friends on the weekend. Pair with a fresh side salad or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal, and don’t forget a refreshing beverage to complement the spices—the flavors mingle perfectly with mint tea or a simple lemonade.

Keep It Fresh

To store leftover shawarma, allow it to cool completely before placing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it will stay fresh for up to 4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing the shredded chicken in freezer bags, squeezing out as much air as possible. It can last up to 3 months. To reheat, simply let it thaw overnight in the fridge and warm it in the microwave or skillet until hot, reviving those wonderful flavors.

Betty’s Secrets

Crisp up your pita bread by warming it in the oven or on a skillet for a minute or two before serving—it adds a delightful crunch.
For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in the spice mix for a few hours or overnight if you have time. It makes a world of difference!
Don’t skip out on serving with fresh toppings; a sprinkle of diced cucumber or olives can elevate the dish.

Creative Twists

For a fall twist, add a pinch of cinnamon to your spice mix for a warm, comforting flavor that complements the dish.
Summer is the perfect time to experiment with fresh herbs like cilantro or mint for a refreshing pop.
You can substitute chicken thighs with boneless chicken breasts for a lighter option, though thighs tend to stay juicier!

Your Questions Answered

Can I use a different type of meat for this shawarma recipe? Absolutely! Beef or lamb will work wonderfully, just adjust the cooking time as needed for doneness.

How do I know when the chicken is cooked through? The internal temperature should reach 165°F. If you don’t have a thermometer, cutting the chicken should reveal no pink inside!

Can I prepare this dish in advance? Yes! This recipe is great for meal prep. You can marinate the chicken a day ahead and start cooking whenever you’re ready.

What sides pair well with shawarma? Consider serving it with classic Mediterranean sides like tabbouleh, roasted vegetables, or even a simple yogurt dip to balance the spices.